Bacterial vaginosis is a mild infection in the vagina caused by a type of bacteria (germ). For grammatical reasons, some people prefer to call it vaginal bacteriosis. The condition results from an overgrowth of normal bacteria in the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis is not passed by sex and is not dangerous, but it can cause disturbing symptoms. Many women mistakenly believe that yeast infections are the most common type of vaginal infection but bacterial vaginosis is the most frequently occurring vaginal infection affecting from 10 percent to 64 percent of the female population at any given time. Studies indicate that a woman with bacterial vaginosis has an increased chance of having a variety of other reproductive tract problems. Therefore, diagnosis and treatment are important.

Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis

The common Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis :

The exact cause of BV is unknown .

Having a new sex partner or multiple sex partners .

Using an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control .

Not using a condom.

Douching.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Some Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis :

Strong, unpleasant vaginal odor

Vaginal discharge.

A bothersome "fishy" odor, which is usually worse after sex.

Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis

Antibiotics can kill the problem bacteria causing BV symptoms but sometimes don't reverse the underlying cause. Therefore, BV symptoms recur in about 30% of women after antibiotic treatment.

In about 25% of women, BV symptoms resolve on their own. This happens when the vaginal lactobacilli organisms increase to their normal levels, and other bacteria levels drop.

Restoring levels of "good" lactobacillus organisms in the vagina using yogurt or dietary supplements.

Antibiotics and antimicrobial creams.

Bacterial vaginosis can be cured by antibiotics such as metronidazole and tetracycline there is however a high rate of recurrence.

The usual dose is 400 mg twice a day for seven days. A single dose of 2 grams is an alternative, although this may be less effective and may cause more side-effects.